Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho believes the club will miss Didier Drogba

Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho believes his old club will feel the absence of departed striker Didier Drogba.

Last Updated: 22/09/12 9:21am

Didier Drogba: Will be missed by Chelsea, says Mourinho

Striker Drogba left Stamford Bridge in the summer after a glittering eight-year stay which saw him win three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups and finally, the UEFA Champions League.

He secured that memorable success over Bayern Munich with the winning penalty, having already scored in normal time - his 157th and final goal for the club.

A move to China and Shanghai Shenhua followed but, although Chelsea have made an unbeaten start to life without him, Mourinho believes it is only a matter of time before they start to miss him.

The Real Madrid manager, who signed Drogba during his time in West London, told Sky Sports News: "I believe Drogba is the big difference for them.

"I don't think you can replace him. You can buy top players and invest like Chelsea did, but there is only one Drogba, in the Premiership and Chelsea's history.

"Drogba means crucial moments. The final, a top match, Drogba is there. When the team is losing at home, Drogba is there.

"Chelsea will miss Drogba and Drogba will mean a few less points. But the team is good, with good players and they are European champions."